Some Relevant Information with regard to health insurance

By Bob Capistrano (2009-2010)

This is not an authoritative guide to the insurance coverage and claims procedures, it is simply information gathered through experience. It does not replace your obligation to familiarize yourself with the insurance coverage and claims procedures directly with Vanbreda International. Also note that the United Nations is not competent in issues related to your medical insurance beyond confirming your status as a UN Fellow to Vanbreda.

Before you leave (or immediately upon arrival in your first host country)

  • Prior to you arrival in your host country (or soon after arrival), you should request Vanbreda International to provide your “Personal Reference Number” by sending an email to: mcc242@vanbreda.com
  • Provide the following information to Vanbreda International:
  1. Your name
  2. Your status: United Nations Nippon Fellow
  3. Your date of birth
  4. Your mailing address (in your first host country)
  • Indicate that you are requesting to obtain your personal reference number (for tracking purposes and future correspondence)
  • On the average, it takes three to five business days for Vanbreda International to respond to your inquiry.
  • If Vanbreda International is unable to locate your personal reference number, e-mail Dr. Francois Bailet at bailet@un.org regarding this matter.
  • Familiarize yourself with the medical and dental services available in your host country. Note that hospitals or clinics have different mode of payments (i.e., cash or credit card).
  • Make sure you know where the University clinic and the nearest hospital are located. Take note of their contact information and clinic hours in cases of emergency. Your university clinic should be able to refer you to other doctor for treatment of specific medical cases. You have a free choice of provider and have a worldwide coverage.

In case you need care

  • For emergency cases, it is advised that you proceed directly to a doctor/hospital. You should also contact as soon as possible, or have contacted on your behalf, Vanbreda’s hospitalisation unit in case of hospitalisation or day surgery. You can reach them by fax at + 32-3-217-6620 or e-mail to admissions@vanbreda.com.
  • For non-emergency cases that do not require immediate care or medication, you may wish to contact Vanbreda International before proceeding so as to ensure coverage and familiarize yourself with claims procedures and any change in coverage. Also, some clinics prefer that you make an appointment ahead of time.
  • Usually you are requested to pay upfront for medical and dental services provided by your physician and dentist, respectively. Keep the original receipt / invoice / billing statement / health insurance claim form for reimbursement purposes.
  • Currently, dental services are covered at 100% up to the overall dental ceiling of 600 USD per 12 months. Dental bleaching however is not covered being aesthetic in nature. Note the increase in dental ceiling from 500 to 600 USD (source: E-mail correspondence with Robert Capistrano dated August 11, 2009) as the UN website is not yet updated.
  • For physiotherapy treatment, ask a referral from your doctor. In order to have the expenses reimbursed, please send the original invoice and proof of payment together with the referral issued by a medical doctor.
  • After treatment, complete the “Claim for reimbursement of medical expense form” provided by Vanbreda International.
  • As you are submitting original receipts, it is advised that you send your documents through a registered and secured mail. Vanbreda International will not reimburse the cost of mailing documents. Health claims are usually paid in U.S. currency.
  • Mail your documents to:

Vanbreda International

Medical Claims Center

PO Box 69

2140 ANTWERP

Belgium

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